Virginia Ann (Banning) Mitchell, 76

Just before sunset on Tuesday, May 8, 2007, Virginia Ann (Banning) Mitchell, age 76, of Newark, entered the gates of heaven's glory where she stood before the Lord and heard the words, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant."

Virginia was born in Greenwood, daughter of the late Thomas and Mary Banning. The family moved to New Castle during World War II, and it was there that Virginia met Aubrey "Roy" Mitchell. The two were married in Elkton, Md., and lived in New Castle County. Recently, Virginia and Roy celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.

For 10 years, Virginia conducted a day care center out of her home and became known and beloved as "Mamaw," not only to her own grandchildren, but to the many children she cared for and who became an important part of her life.

Virginia was an active member of Family Life Christian Fellowship Church in Wilmington for many years.

She is survived by her husband, Aubrey; her daughters, Wanda F. Angotti and Robin M. Cheeseman and her husband Ron; her sister, Melva Anthony and her husband Charles "Harry"; her grandchildren, Scott Cheeseman and his wife Kim, Ali Cheeseman, and Bryan Cheeseman and his wife Michele; five great-grandchildren; her nephew, Michael Anthony and his wife Kandy, and their three daughters; and her grand-dog, Happy.

In addition to her parents, Virginia was preceded in death by her brother, Thomas Banning Jr.; her sister, Ethel Banning; and a nephew, Roger Anthony.

A viewing will be Saturday, from 10 to 11 a.m. in the Gracelawn Memorial Park, DuPont Highway, New Castle, followed by a service in celebration of Virginia's life at 11. Interment will be in the adjoining cemetery.

Arrangements by Strano & Feeley Family Funeral Home, New Castle.